Question

How to fix misconceptions​

Answer 1

Misconceptions arising from spoken language and natural phenomena can be easily corrected by students, but it is not easy for teachers and students to break down unscientific beliefs and prejudiced ideas. Recent studies of students' misconceptions based on natural phenomena have shown that it is not possible to correct these misconceptions if the wrong model in the student's mind explains events in some way. These misconceptions persistently remain in the mind, preventing the student from learning new scientific concepts. Therefore, teachers have important duties in eliminating misconceptions. Before teachers attempt to correct these misconceptions in students, they must ensure that they confront misconceptions in their minds. This does not happen at once, it requires a process, and what needs to be done by teachers in this process:

Students' misconceptions should be identified.

A discussion environment should be created between the students and they should be confronted with their misconceptions.

With scientific approaches and models, students should be helped to restructure and assimilate information.